A Chief Medical Laboratory Scientist is urging Ghanaians to regularly check their health. Odelia Tamakloe from the National Cardiothoracic Centre made this plea. She said many people ignore their health status. Serious conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes go unnoticed for years.
Ms. Tamakloe spoke after a free health screening event. The National Cardiothoracic Centre organised the event. It took place last Friday in New Achimota, Accra. The event targeted staff of Quantum LC and local residents. About 150 people received health checks. The theme was “Early Detection, Better Health, Brighter Tomorrow.” This initiative formed part of the Centre's social responsibility.
The National Cardiothoracic Centre is a key medical facility in Ghana. It provides specialised heart surgeries. Patients come from Ghana and other African countries. Countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, and Togo refer patients. Cardiothoracic surgeries are very expensive. The Centre depends on support from companies. These partners donate equipment. They also sponsor surgeries. This allows the Centre to continue its work.
Quantum LC is one such important partner. They have supported the Centre’s operations. This outreach event was a way to say thank you. Ms. Tamakloe mentioned other partners. Kasapreko Company Limited also supports healthcare efforts. These collaborations are vital for the Centre's mission.
The health screening focused on common and often silent diseases. The team checked haemoglobin levels for anaemia. They measured cholesterol to assess heart risk. Blood glucose tests identified diabetes and pre-diabetes. Prostate cancer screening was done for men using PSA tests. Some patients with known diabetes had their condition managed.
Ms. Tamakloe noted that some participants had never checked their health before. Those with abnormal results were referred to doctors. Some require follow-up tests at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. She stressed that hypertension is a major hidden threat. Many are unaware they have high blood pressure. They only find out when serious complications arise. "Hypertension is a silent disease," she stated. Routine screening is therefore crucial.
She expressed concern about health-seeking habits in Ghana. Some people wrongly see avoiding hospitals as a sign of strength. Ms. Tamakloe believes health is an investment. "People usually say they have not visited the hospital for years as though it is something to celebrate. But just as people buy clothes, phones, perfumes, and cars for themselves, they should also invest in their health by going for regular medical screening," she advised. Proactive health practices are better than reactive ones. Knowing your health baseline helps monitor changes. Borderline results allow doctors to intervene early.